Redmond Airport Dumps 17-Year Vendor; Lawsuit Follows

The coffee at Redmond Airport is about to taste like litigation.

Redmond City Council awarded Tailwind Hospitality a 10-year contract to run food, beverage, and retail at the airport, ending a 17-year run for local incumbent Aviano RDM. The switch is tied to the new terminal expansion, with Tailwind taking over when construction finishes in November 2027.

Aviano is not going quietly. It sued the city and Tailwind in July, alleging the former airport director had an inappropriate relationship with Tailwind — including a private meeting before the bid deadline — that violated state contracting law. The director has since resigned after 11 years. Aviano wants corrective action, attorney fees, and $25,000 in proposal costs. The city isn't commenting.

A hometown favorite bounced after 17 years, a lawsuit, a resigned director — this is premium Central Oregon drama.

Pass the popcorn. The terminal opens in 2027.